anicut

An anicut diverts water to irrigate the rice fields.

Definition

Noun: A dam or weir constructed across a stream or river, especially in India, for the purpose of diverting water for irrigation.

Usage Examples

• (A dam used to redirect river water for agricultural irrigation.)
• (A structure designed to regulate water levels by diverting or holding back water.)

Advanced Usage

• "anicut system": A network of small dams and channels used for irrigation management.
  • The anicut system in this region has been in use for centuries, supporting local agriculture. (The network of diversion dams and canals that distribute water.)

Variants and Related Words

• Annicut (n): an alternative spelling of "anicut," though less common.
  • The old annicut was restored to improve water supply. (The dam structure.)

Synonyms

• Weir: a low dam built across a river to raise the water level or divert flow.
• Diversion dam: a structure designed to redirect water from a river into a canal or channel.

Related Idioms

• "anicut of progress" (figurative, rare): a metaphorical barrier or control point that redirects development or change.
  • The new law acted as an anicut of progress, channelling investment into rural areas. (A controlling mechanism that guides growth.)